Sustainability

Main Phone Number: 610-865-7161

The City of Bethlehem has a long-standing commitment to preserving our community's natural resources and historic character. Over the years, city officials, staff, and advisory committees have worked to minimize the city’s environmental impact, reduce resource consumption, and foster a stronger connection between residents and the natural environment.

In 2021, the city released its first Climate Action Plan (CAP), a comprehensive strategy developed with extensive public and stakeholder input. The CAP sets a clear path forward for Bethlehem to mitigate its contribution to climate change and build resilience against a changing climate. It outlines specific policies and projects for both municipal operations and the broader community, ensuring that our city government leads by example while residents and businesses play a key role in our collective efforts.

The Bethlehem Environmental Advisory Council (EAC), along with other dedicated city departments and community groups, plays a crucial role in implementing these initiatives. The EAC helps to incorporate best practices and policies into sustainable plans and programs, which are designed to reduce consumption, minimize waste, and improve environmental performance across the city. Through education, community events, and partnerships, these groups work to inspire residents to join in this important effort.

Bethlehem's commitment to a sustainable future is a collaborative effort, and the city continues to seek opportunities to advance our environmental goals and enhance our community's well-being.
 

Bethlehem's Sustainability Manager

As the City of Bethlehem's Sustainability Manager, Sarah DeGrendel is responsible for advancing Bethlehem's environmental goals. This includes recommending and implementing programs that promote sustainability, helping various city departments reduce their environmental impact, and improving the city's overall environmental performance.

Ms. DeGrendel works closely with city department heads and the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) to incorporate best practices and policies into sustainable plans and programs. This collaborative effort is essential to enabling the city to reduce resource consumption, minimize waste, effectively manage stormwater implement CAP strategies. A key part of the role is establishing and tracking performance metrics to ensure accountability and progress. Through these partnerships, Ms. DeGrendel is dedicated to helping Bethlehem lead the way in creating a more sustainable future.

Sarah DeGrendel, Sustainability Manager